Desalination plant to be built in the Pilbara

The Premier Colin Barnett has announced plans to build a $370 million desalination plant on the Burrup peninsula in the Pilbara.

State cabinet met in Karratha today and endorsed the proposal.

The plant will add a further six billion litres of water annually to support residential and small commercial growth in Karratha, Dampier, Roebourne, Wickham and Port Samson.

Mr Barnett says the plant will be commissioned in three years.

"The growth is now no longer simply the responsibility of major companies," he said.

"State government is accepting its responsibility to ensure a safe, reliable water supply for the people of Karratha and surrounding areas."
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